Crossed Roller Bearings: The Optimal Solution for Robotic

In the era of intelligent manufacturing and precision automation, crossed roller bearings have become essential for robotic systems — from industrial robots to collaborative robots and automated precision equipment.
Their ability to withstand multi-directional loads with high rigidity and minimal deformation makes them key to long-lasting, high-performance machinery.

Why Crossed Roller Bearings Are Ideal for Robots

Crossed roller bearings feature cylindrical rollers arranged at right angles in V-shaped raceways, separated by precision cages. This unique configuration enables:

Multi-directional load capacity — simultaneously supports radial, axial, and moment loads
High rigidity with minimal elastic deformation
Compact, lightweight design
Superior rotational accuracy and dynamic response

These features significantly enhance robot joint modules, rotary tables, and precision actuators, enabling robots to operate with higher speed, precision, and stability.

Key Considerations When Choosing Crossed Roller Bearings for Robots

✔ Rotating Section and Installation Method

Different robot parts (such as joints, rotating components, or rotary tables) have varying requirements for bearing installation. The following series are commonly recommended:

HRB Series (Basic Type): Split outer ring, integrated inner ring; ideal for positions requiring high inner ring rotation accuracy, such as rotary tables.
HRA Series: Ultra-thin design with reduced thickness of inner and outer rings; suitable for compact, lightweight designs with high rotational precision, such as robotic arms.
HRE Series (Basic Type): Integrated outer ring, split inner ring; suitable for positions requiring high outer ring accuracy.
HRU, HXU, HXSU Series: Integrated inner and outer ring structure; easy to install with enhanced rigidity, ideal for applications demanding high rotational accuracy of both rings.
HCRB, HCRBC Series: Integrated ring design with full complement rollers (no cage); suitable for high inner ring rotational accuracy.
HCRBH Series: Ultra-thin cross-section, extremely lightweight and easy to install; provides stable rotation and torque in compact applications where both rings rotate.

✔ Load Capacity & Service Life

Choose the bearing size and model based on the following:

Expected operating life and duty cycle
Static and dynamic load requirements

Applications like welding, medical, and logistics handling arms and cutting robots impose unique loads and lifetime demands.

✔ Environmental Conditions & Friction Control

For harsh environments involving dust, high temperatures, vacuum, or cleanroom requirements, consider the following:

Seal type: Double-sealed, single-sealed, or open
Lubrication: Choose suitable grease or dry lubrication based on conditions

✔ Precision Grade

To ensure repeatability and smooth motion, robots typically require high-precision bearings:

Grade Description：

P0 Standard

P6 Precision

P5 High precision

P4 Ultra-high precision

P2 Aerospace-grade (highest level)

✔ Rigidity & Radial Clearance

Proper clearance ensures stiffness and responsiveness. Available options include:

CC0 — Negative clearance (preloaded)
C0 — Standard clearance
C1 — Larger clearance for specific flexibility needs

Preloaded designs (CC0) are widely used in high-precision robot joints requiring tight motion control.

Advantages of Crossed Roller Bearings in Robotic Applications

Simplified Assembly

Split-ring designs facilitate fast and error-free installation, increasing production efficiency and reducing failure risk.

Superior Rigidity & Load Resistance

Crossed roller arrangements offer 3–4× the rigidity of angular contact ball bearings, essential for robots operating under dynamic loads.

Enhanced Precision & Longevity

Precision cages eliminate roller tilt and mutual friction, significantly reducing wear and extending service life while lowering maintenance costs.

High Dynamic Response

Crossed roller bearings with exceptional stiffness and precision support fast, high-frequency motion — perfect for medical robotics, inspection systems, and automated handling solutions.

Your Reliable Partner for Robotic Bearings: HGT

HGT specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of cross roller bearings, providing comprehensive selection support and customized services for customers in the robotics industry. If you have any cross roller bearing application needs in your robotics projects, please feel free to contact us. Our engineering team will provide you with professional advice and rapid response support.

Contact Us

Email: info@hgtbearing.com

Phone: +1 617-997-1606